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Lateral view of a Female Hexagenia limbata (Ephemeridae) (Hex) Mayfly Dun from the Namekagon River in Wisconsin
Hex Mayflies
Hexagenia limbata

The famous nocturnal Hex hatch of the Midwest (and a few other lucky locations) stirs to the surface mythically large brown trout that only touch streamers for the rest of the year.

Dorsal view of a Sweltsa (Chloroperlidae) (Sallfly) Stonefly Nymph from the Yakima River in Washington
This species was fairly abundant in a February sample of the upper Yakima.
27" brown trout, my largest ever. It was the sub-dominant fish in its pool. After this, I hooked the bigger one, but I couldn't land it.
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Giant Water Scavenger Beetles

This common name refers to only one family. Click its scientific name to learn more.

Beetle Family Hydrophilidae

These are often called Giant Water Scavenger Beetles.
These are a common sight on most trout streams, especially in the calm backwaters. They aren't regarded as significant to trout, although I have found them in occasional stomach samples.
Dorsal view of a Hydrophilidae (Giant Water Scavenger Beetle) Beetle Adult from the Namekagon River in Wisconsin
This is a water beetle. It is the hardest object in the world to pick up with tweezers. The second hardest is Mount Everest.

Giant Water Scavenger Beetles

Scientific Name
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